Switching under pressure: How obsolete data slows down operations

Time and again, grid operators describe to us similar situations: In a grid area with an increasing number of heat pumps, PV systems, and wall-mounted EV chargers, a distribution cabinet requires maintenance. To avoid the interruption of power supply, part of the grid has to be temporarily switched to alternative sources. But even a seemingly simple question such as "How can we perform switching operations safely and in compliance with regulations?" leads to considerable coordination efforts: There are no digital records of the current switch state; switching plans are outdated, partially documented on paper, and do not match real-world conditions; potential impacts on load flows can only be estimated – and all that while under intense time constraints. 

The time available is nearly impossible to influence. What we can influence, however, is how that time is used: With digital grid models, automated simulations, and integrated plausibility checks, switching operations can be prepared faster, with greater safety and reliability.

Why uncertainty about switching states can pose a risk

Switching states are often documented manually. This process is time-consuming and quickly leads to outdated information, creating a real problem when planning and implementing safe switching operations. Especially with rising grid loads and increasingly complex operations, switching cannot be done freely without the risk of bottlenecks. On top of that, new sites, such as charging stations or batteries, complicate the evaluation of the situation in the grid. While experienced field technicians still know their way around the grid, these experts are becoming increasingly rare as many approach retirement. With scarce resources and staff shortages, the situation becomes all the more challenging. This is especially critical for the following aspects:

  • Scattered or paper-based documentation: Often times, switching plans and switching states only exist in physical records or scattered across systems.
  • No automatic sync: There is no continuous digital record or synchronization of changes in the grid.
  • Decrease in model accuracy: Static grid models become outdated and less significant.
  • Lack of simulation options: It is difficult to evaluate and optimize planned switching operations in advance.
  • Process not in compliance with Section 14a of the German Energy Industry Act (EnWG): Knowing the current switch state is necessary to perform a correct state estimation.

As switching measures are becoming necessary more frequently for the reasons given above, a reliable, digital tool is essential to carry them out safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. 

Digital switch planning: Safe, precise, and always up to date 

A well-thought-out solution not only saves time, it also streamlines the entire process: The Intelligent Grid Platform (IGP) offers greater precision, automation, and efficiency for your switching processes. With the Switching Manager app, you can simulate planned switching operations and analyze their impact on the grid load. The digital grid model is updated continuously and incorrect switch positions are corrected, ensuring that grid planning and grid operations are always based on the actual grid topology. That way, the Switching Manager app covers the process end to end, even including corresponding workforce management systems. What that looks like in practice:

Perform what-if analyses before switching operations:

  • Quickly evaluate the impact of switching operations based on load flow simulations
  • Switching operations optimized and safe without exception — no more limit violations


Provide information for field technicians, e.g. switching history:

  • Better overview for fewer errors and improved safety in the workplace
  • Switching history accessible at every asset
  • Option to filter for active switching operations


Simulate and keep track of switching operations:

  • Fewer data conflicts across departments and therefore improved decision-making
  • Automatically generated switching plan for the actions simulated in advance
  • Simple activation of switching operations in the IGP when the switching plan is implemented in the grid


Check resupply via neighboring grids or emergency power supply systems:

  • Simulate the disconnection of individual assets or grid areas
  • Instant display of areas without power
  • Calculate the necessary capacity of emergency power supply systems

Advantages for grid operators:

  1. Information on all switching states
  2. Overview of switching history
  3. Grid calculations in the field for an effective resupply
  4. Time-saving automation
switching_manager_benefits

Conclusion: Digital support for your day-to-day switching tasks

Switching operations are part of the daily routine in grid operations and are often more complex than they initially appear. The Intelligent Grid Platform and the integrated Switching Manager app provide useful tools that significantly reduce the effort involved in switching operations – with reliable grid data, automated processes, and the option to simulate planned measures in advance. This way, you can streamline switching processes while improving the basis for safe and transparent switching operations.

Want to see our tool live?

If your company is also looking to make its switching operations more efficient, feel free to get in touch – we’ll be happy to show you our solution in a no-obligation demo.

Contact person

Dr. Tobias Falke
VP Global Sales & Marketing

Tobias Falke envelio
+49 221 222 85 80
info@envelio.de